Carolina Panthers 2022 end of season superlatives: Who made the cut?

Chuba Hubbard – Carolina Panthers RB

• Honorable Mention: Frankie Luvu, Derrick Brown, Brady Christensen.

Plenty of players deserve to be in consideration for the Carolina Panthers’ most improved player of 2022. But my vote goes to Chuba Hubbard.

The running back struggled as a starter in 2021 after the injury to superstar Christian McCaffrey and found himself as a reserve at the beginning of this season. However, after the All-Pro was traded and Matt Rhule was fired, Hubbard found himself in an increased role within Steve Wilks’ new offensive plan.

The Panthers began to lean on the run game as Wilks took over. Thanks to their sterling consistency, it took the pressure off of almost every player on offense.

Hubbard was vital to this new-look offense and posted massive improvements in his game from a year ago. He also progressed from a blocking standpoint, which was essential after a torrid rookie campaign in this key area of production.

Toting for a very impressive 4.9 yards per carry, and posting a catch percentage of 82.4 percent, the former Oklahoma State Cowboy proved the doubters wrong that he could be an NFL running back.

Coming into next season, Hubbard looks to increase his role and form a formidable backfield with D’Onta Foreman providing the pending free agent receives a contract extension beforehand.